The Job Requirements
A Doctorate (a Master’s Degree may be considered under exceptional circumstances) plus at least 10 years relevant experience, where such experience includes: -

• A sophisticated understanding of the social, political, and economic challenges in the Higher Education (HE) environment and knowledge and expertise that enjoys the respect of academic colleagues.
• At least five years of experience operating in a complex organisation with evidence of providing leadership in such settings at an executive/senior level.
• Active participation in key decision-making fora.
• Championing and managing transformation, preferably at the organisational/institutional level.
• Track record of establishing structures, systems and/or processes to support activities of the institution at the departmental, Faculty or institutional level.
• In-depth knowledge about higher education legislation and the associated regulatory processes, requirements and trends in the higher education sector.
• Demonstrable legal insight and understanding.
• A demonstrable understanding of the academic administrative processes.
• Management of resources at either the departmental, Faculty or institutional level.
• Exposure to academic and student matters, in particular the challenges facing HE institutions today.

Application Process

It is essential that prospective candidates read the job profile for further information and ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted.

The following documents are required:

• A strong and succinct motivation outlining your interest in the post and suitability relative to the job requirements.
• A comprehensive CV which should include the following: -
• Reasons for leaving your current and previous jobs.
• Referees who are and/or were your direct line manager, their title, name, designation, and contact information, which should be at least their contact number and email address.
• All relevant certificates.
• A copy of your job profile/ description that most closely aligns with the experience Rhodes University requires.

Please note that handwritten applications will not be considered. Your application must be submitted via our website and online recruitment system.  Failure to submit all the required documentation and respond to all questions asked appropriately will result in an application being disqualified.

Any questions or enquiries can be addressed to Ms Ntosh Gongqa at hrrecruitment@ru.ac.za or 046 603 8616.

The interviews are scheduled for March 30, 2026.

Remuneration per annum (Grade 22):

Cost to Company per annum (Approximately):             R2 336 337

All applications will be treated in strict confidence. This post is advertised as a permanent post, but the University may opt to appoint on a fixed-term contract of not less than three years. The University reserves the right not to proceed with filling the post. An application in itself does not entitle the applicant to an interview.  Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates.

Closing Date: 23rd January 2026

If you are not contacted within 30 days of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Recognising that diversity is essential in achieving excellence, Rhodes University strongly encourages all suitably qualified candidates to apply for this position. 

Please note that all appointments are made in line with the requirements of the Employment Equity Act of 55 of 1998, as amended by the Immigration Act No. 13 of 2022, and the University's Recruitment and Selection policies.

Our core values and principles are the foundation of our commitment to creating a positive, supportive, and enabling environment. These values guide our decisions, actions, and how we engage with each other as we work to achieve our vision and mission.

These values are:
Diversity; Integrity; Respect; Excellence; Collegiality and Compassion

Underpinning these values is the moral duty of accountability and courage: we acknowledge that we are answerable to each other, our Council and ultimately, the South African society for the decisions we make and the actions we take. We are committed to openness and transparency in our governance, our decision-making and in the execution of our responsibilities and in demonstrating courage in confronting those who violate the values for which we stand.